Lesufi draws a line in the sand on Bela

By Johnathan Paoli

Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi has welcomed the efforts of progressive forces within the Tripartite Alliance, despite them being undermined by some who are opposed to the transformation agenda.

Speaking at the SA Communist Party’s national congress on Thursday, Lesufi once again called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to allow the immediate implementation of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Act.

“The doors of learning and culture should be open for all. Not only must we be on the side of our children, but we must bring an end to the discrimination and attack on our children,” he said.

Lesufi stressed the importance of Friday in bringing a close on the matter after  months of tension and speculation surrounding clauses 4 and 5 of the Act, which deal with language and placement policies.

Ramaphosa has given parties until Friday to reach a compromise, warning if they do not, he